Unexpected activated carbon-catalyzed pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines synthesis in water

An interesting and recyclable activated carbon/water catalytic system for efficient synthesis of pyrrolo [1,2-a]quinoxaline derivatives was developed. The intramolecular C-N and C-C bond can be easily constructed in water under mild condition. This reaction features a broad substrate scope, a good tolerance to water and air, metal-free, additive-free and redox reagent-free. (C) 2019 Chinese Chemical Society and Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.